In Singapore, gangs of otters fight among themselves (5 photos + 2 videos)

The video caught the moment of a fight between two of the most famous families of Singapore otters. They even have their own names: the Bishan family and the Marina family. They formed in Singapore several years ago, and now periodically fight for territory.





A few years ago, separate “families” of otters formed in Singapore. Two of the area's most prominent families, Bishan and Marina, were filmed screaming and charging at each other in the Kallang River. After the attack, Marin's family is seen moving away and retreating from their opponents. After the collision in the water, the conflict continued on the shore. And all this is a struggle for territory.



As you know, these “clans” of otters have been feuding for several years, and the video captured only a small fragment of the hour-long struggle. Initially, the Bishan family lived in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, but in 2015 they moved further south to Marina Bay, where they began to feud with local otters. Since then, they have fought several times, one of which in 2017 led to the death of a cub from the Marina family. Deaths and injuries, despite the epic nature of the fights, are extremely rare in such clashes.





Entire companies monitor Singapore otters: for example, OtterWatch. Otters are territorial predators and need to control fairly large areas of territory to feed their families, experts say. Experts believe that it is useless to interfere in the affairs of otters - the enmity can only intensify.



Despite all this hostility, Singaporeans love the local otters. In 2016, locals chose Bishan otters as the symbol of Singapore for the country's 51st anniversary. In addition, residents are proud that there are so many otters in the country. They say the large number of otters is a good sign that efforts to improve local water quality are working.